Blog – Page 810 – Diamond Prospects

Diamond Spotlight: Greg Harrison

South Carolina Commitment: Hilton Head senior two-way standout Greg Harrison has a very accomplished prep resume headed into his spring campaign. Following in the footsteps of an older brother that has had his share of success on the baseball field, the younger Harrison has wasted no time making a name for himself on the broad … The new DP website is here. For all the great DP content, subscribe. If you have any login/subscription issues, please contact our support team. Your feedback on the new experience is appreciated as well. Username Password Remember Me Forgot Password

Coaches Corner: Sean Heffernan

Francis Marion assistant coach Sean Heffernan enters his third season at Francis Marion University following coaching stops at West Florence and Florence-Darlington Tech. The Queens, NY native also coached in the Coastal Plains League following his playing career at Coker College. Learn more about Heffernan in his Diamond Spotlight: DP-How many years have you been in coaching? What got you into the business? SH-10 years now….5 at West Florence HS and 5 at the college level (2 years at FDTC and going on 3 years at FMU). I got into coaching because the most influential people in my life outside of my parents were my coaches. DP-What is the most rewarding thing about being a baseball coach? SH-I really enjoy being around my players. It is very rewarding to watch guys develop over the course of their careers. It’s always exciting when former players contact you to share the successes of their lives even after baseball is over. DP-What does the term "coach" mean to you? SH-It means a lot. The word that comes to mind is responsibility. I feel like I am responsible for developing these guys as much as possible. Also to help them prepare for life after baseball. DP-What is something you wish everyone knew about your profession? SH-I think most people don’t really understand the time that is spent with our jobs. How many people would put in the hours coaches work without over time? Most jobs are motivated by money. My motivation is winning and developing players. DP-We all know there is very little money in getting started in coaching at the college level yet the time involved is mind-boggling, why did you do it? SH-I loved playing college baseball and I knew I wanted to coach at the college level because of that. The road trips, the tough practices, the brotherhood….. the winning!!! There is a much different commitment level when being a part of a college program. As a player and a coach you become consumed by it. I also really enjoy evaluating and recruiting. To steal a line from Bill Parcells, "If I am going to cook dinner I want to pick the groceries!!" DP: How do you balance the time demands of coaching and your family? SH-It is very difficult. I spent the last three summers on a bus in the Coastal Plains League. It’s tough when my daughter asked me this summer if I was going to be at her birthday party!!…that was an eye opener! It can’t be done without a great wife and kids. I am very fortunate to have both. My wife understands athletics so I am lucky. She played 3 sports in college and coached HS soccer for a number of years. DP-When you hear the expression "old school baseball", what does that phrase mean to you? SH-GRINDER!!! There are not a lot of those guys around but when you come across one, it is so much fun to watch. It makes me think of no excuses….just shut up and get after it!!!! DP-What is the definition of a "student-athlete"? SH-Most people do not realize how special these people are. It takes a highly-motivated person to spend as much time with their sport and still be able to meet the demands of the classroom. Not everybody can do it. DP-How has your junior college background helped you at FMU? SH-It has helped me a lot. I know how good Region X is, so we try to recruit the best guys out of that region each year. It also helped me build some valuable relationships with coaches in that league, which has truly helped me. DP-What is your most memorable experience as a baseball coach? SH-So far it would be starting the program at FDTC….It was a huge task. For us to win the regular season title and have 40 wins was a great experience. Those guys took a chance on us starting a program, and to see them celebrate on the field was unforgettable. DP-Who has made the greatest impression on you as a baseball coach and why? SH-My HS coach, Jack Curran, is a legend in New York. He is the baseball and basketball coach at Archbishop Molloy HS. He has coached a few NBA and MLB players and has a 1000 wins in both baseball and basketball….He has been coaching over 50 years!! I still talk to him, he is an unbelievable person and coach DP-Who are the best three players you have coached against? SH-Rich Poytheuss– U of Georgia; Dylan Owen– FMU (he played for the Blowfish in the CPL for a few weeks before he signed with the Mets because I could not coach him with the Redwolves); Chris Swauger– The Citadel (I coached him too, but I coached against him as well in the CPL). DP-What does it mean to be a good teammate and is that important? SH-It is very important to be a good teammate. I think a lot of guys over look this because most kids play baseball to showcase themselves and aren’t concerned with their teammates and winning and losing. Baseball is such a team game, you have to be concerned with helping your team win and you must be willing to do whatever it takes to make that happen. I like to recruit winners. DP-Do you have any superstitions? If so, what? SH-No DP-What do you see as the biggest difference in high school-aged players today versus when you played? SH-Baseball players are so specialized anymore. They focus way too much on getting scholarships and not playing for the enjoyment of the game. When I was a kid there were no camps or showcase or anything like that. I think the exposure can be very beneficial but I also think it effects how players look at the game. DP-Now switching gears, think back to your days as a baseball player, please list any notable accolades: SH-I played 4 years at Coker College. Back then Coker was a very strong program. We were an NAIA program my first year and ranked as high as 3rd in the nation. We lost that year in the regional championship. The next 3 years we were NCAA …

Diamond Spotlight: Jake Zokan

College of Charleston Commit: Spring Valley southpaw Jake Zokan has emerged as one of the premier arms in the Class of 2009. He committed to the Cougars during the summer but may command some pro attention this spring. He recently spent some time with Diamond Prospects so that DP readers could get to know him better. DP-Please l… The new DP website is here. For all the great DP content, subscribe. If you have any login/subscription issues, please contact our support team. Your feedback on the new experience is appreciated as well.

Al’s View: There is No Crying in Baseball!

By: Al Hudson-October 21, 2008 It is with a sad heart that I write this column. My beloved Red Sox were knocked out of this year’s World Series by the upstart Tampa Bay Rays. But should we have seen it coming? Tampa Bay, long the doormat of the American League, has been stockpiling early draft picks for quite a few years. The Rays have four first round draft picks on the current roster. David Price (2007), Evan Longoria (2006), BJ Upton (2002) and Rocco Baldelli (2000). Each has made their presence felt in 2008 playoff action. In addition, Carl Crawford (1999 – 2nd round), James Shields (2000 – 15th round) and Andy Sonnanstine (2004 – 13th round) are integral parts of the 2008 Rays. Therefore, the keys components in the Rays ascent should be Chuck Lamar and Andrew Friedman. Lamar was the General Manager from inception to 2006 when Friedman assumed the job. Draft picks are only part of the equation. Lamar engineered a significant trade for starting pitcher Scott Kazmir in 2004, and traded for starting catcher, Dioner Navarro in 2006. Friedman, who should be selected as Executive of the Year, signed free agent first baseman, Carlos Pena in 2007, and put the finishing touches on the Rays with the acquisition of starting pitcher, Matt Garza and shortstop, Jason Bartlett, from the Minnesota Twins for former 2003 1st round pick, Delmon Young. Young is a fine player, but the former Twins were instrumental in the Ray’s success. Only the 1991 Atlanta Braves had a better last-to-first turn around then the 2008 Tampa Bay Rays. If you think that I am obsessed with the Rays, let’s not lose perspective. They are a nice story, but can they beat the Phillies. Let’s examine the facts about both teams. The number one key to the series is the three games in Philadelphia. The Rays set a record for most home runs hit in a playoff series (16). How does that affect them in the bandbox stadium of Citizens Bank Park? Many a team have gone into a visitors locker room, stepped out on the field, and thought," We will fill those seats with home runs." If they can maintain their normal approach, they will be fine, but therein lies the problem. Young hitters, small ballpark. The series could end in Philadelphia if the Rays do not adjust. The Phillies strength is in the bullpen. They are 79-0 when leading in the ninth inning. Closer, Brad Lidge has an un-hittable slider. However, before coming to the Phillies, he had a couple of down years with the Houston Astros. He has returned to form and his set up men Ryan Madson, Chad Durbin and JC Romero are far superior to the Rays bullpen. For the past twenty years, the best bullpen has dominated the series. The X factor is David Price. The Vanderbilt hero can be dominant because of his 96 MPH fastball and his hard breaking slider. Plus, the scouting report is vague on this newcomer to the Major Leagues. When a pitcher throws 96 MPH, you had better have an idea when you step into the box. Speed will favor the Rays. Their starting outfield is the fastest in the game. Speed usually translates to good defense. When you look at the middle infield, the Rays defense is very strong. Bartlett and Akinori turn the double play as well as anyone in the league. The Phillies will have to learn the nuances of The Trop. They may spend Game One staring at the catwalks. The Phillies, one through nine, are an offensive machine. Jimmy Rollins, Shane Victorino, Chase Utley, Ryan Howard and Pat Burrell have the ability and the experience to dominate a short series. If they hit as projected, the series could end in Philadelphia in four or five games. Pitching! It all comes down to pitching. The Phils’ Cole Hamels (right) has been the best starter in either series so far. He has to win Game One or the Phillies are in trouble. Forty-six year old Jamie Moyer has been awful in the postseason, but the Rays are a fastball hitting team. Moyer, a la Greg Maddux, will keep them off-stride with his change-up. If he keeps it down and in the zone, the Rays will struggle. The Rays have to win at least one game in Philadelphia. I believe they have an edge with Matt Garza and Andy Sonnanstine slated to pitch games three and four. The key to the pitching match-ups might be Game Two starters James Shields and Brett Meyers. I realize my selections to this point have been less than stellar. The Dodgers right-handed pitching did dominate the Cubs, and the Phillies bested CC Sabathia to take the Brewers down in four. The American League was a different story with the Red Sox besting the vaunted Angels, and the Rays beating the White Sox. I did get the Phillies into the World Series, but alas, albeit a good effort, the Red Sox failed to return to defend its title. No tears, the Red Sox didn’t lose, the Rays won. With all of that in mind, and recognizing the fact that my fellow BoSox fans do not care who wins, I have to agree with The Guru of Baseball, Peter Gammons, and pick the Phillies to win the World Series. I have long been a proponent of the National League style of play, and the American League dominance in World Series and All Star competition aside, I will go with the Red & White. Win or lose, the Rays have been fun to watch! Questions and comments should be sent to: [email protected]

MLB Clinic

INNER CITY BASEBALL CLINIC WHAT: One-day clinic organized by the Major League Baseball (MLB) Scouting Bureau with scouts from Major League clubs as well as other knowledgeable baseball men serving as instructors. WHEN: Sunday, November 16. Registration: Noon-12:30, Clinic: 12:45-5:00 pm. WHERE: Capital City Baseball Stadium: Columbia, SC WHO: Any high school student attending an inner city high school. COST: Free EQUIPMENT NEEDED: Bring your own glove and a bat of your liking. Catchers bring catcher’s gear if possible. Only a few bats, one set of catcher’s gear and no gloves will be on hand for participants to use. Clinic Information: 1. The MLB waiver form signed by a parent or legal guardian is required for participation. Waiver forms will be available during registration the day of the event. To request a waiver form in advance, contact Gary Randall – 803-984-2927. Completed waiver forms can be faxed or brought to the clinic during registration. Faxed waiver forms must be received no later than Friday, November 16. Fax #: 1-803-366-6697. 2. The clinic will involve basic instruction, drills and practice – no games. Liability Waiver and Release In consideration of being allowed to participate in any tryout, workout or other activity ("Tryout") organized by the Major League Baseball Scouting Bureau, the Office of the Commissioner of Baseball, a Major League Club or any other Major League Baseball individual or entity (collectively, the "Baseball Parties"), the undersigned prospective player ("Player") agrees to assume all risks incidental to such participation (including, without limitation, injury or loss to person or property). Each of the undersigned hereby agrees to release and forever discharge each of the Baseball Parties from any and all liabilities, claims, actions, damages, costs or expenses of any nature whatsoever, whether in law or equity, known or unknown, that any of the undersigned ever had, now has or hereafter can, shall or may have against any of the Baseball Parties arising out of or in any way related, directly or indirectly, to Player’s participation in such Tryout. Each of the undersigned parent(s) or guardian(s) of Player hereby agrees to indemnify and hold harmless each of the Baseball Parties from and against any and all liabilities, claims, actions, damages, costs or expenses of any nature whatsoever, whether in law or equity, known or unknown, incurred by any of the Baseball Parties and arising out of or in any way related, directly or indirectly, to Player’s participation in such tryout, workout or other activity. Each of the undersigned parent(s) or guardian(s) of Player hereby ratifies Player’s execution of this waiver and release form. At least one parent or guardian of Player must sign this form if Player is under the age of 21, in order for Player to participate in any Tryout. Player Signature ____________________________________________________ Name (printed): _________________ Date: ________________ Player’s date of birth: _ ______________________________ Parent / Guardian Signature _____________________________________________ Name (printed): _ ________________ Date: ________________ Parent / Guardian Signature ____________________________________________ Name (printed): ________________ _ Date: ________________

Diamond Spotlight: TJ Young

Coastal Carolina Commitment: TJ Young is a senior at Dorman High School and member of the varsity baseball team. Young is a true example of a student-athlete. While being in the top six percent of his class, he also attends classes at Spartanburg Methodist College. In 2006, he was recognized nationally as an Academic All-American. In 2008, he was s… The new DP website is here. For all the great DP content, subscribe. If you have any login/subscription issues, please contact our support team. Your feedback on the new experience is appreciated as well.

DP’s Pre-season Scrimmages

Diamond Prospects is hosting four pre-season scrimmages during the month of February… February 21 at Brookland-Cayce HS 8:30 AM – Airport BP in LF cages 9:00 AM – Southside Christian BP in LF cages 9:30 AM – Airport INF/OF 9:40 AM – Southside Christian INF/OF 10:00 AM – Southside Christian vs Airport (9 innings) 11:30 AM – Brookland-Cayce BP in LF cages 11:45 AM – Sumter-60’s 12:00 PM – Sumter BP in LF cages 12:30 PM – Brookland-Cayce INF/OF 12:40 PM – Sumter INF/OF 12:50 PM – Southside Christian-60’s following game 1:00 PM – Brookland-Cayce vs Sumter (5 innings) 1:30 PM – Stratford-60’s 2:00 PM – Stratford BP in LF cages 2:40 PM – Stratford INF/OF 3:00 PM – Sumter vs Stratford (5 innings) 5:00 PM – Stratford vs Brookland-Cayce (5 innings) *The 3rd and 4th gametimes are approximate, games will begin immediately following the game before. February 21 at Easley’s Alice Mill Park 10:00 AM – Blue Ridge/Chesnee BP & INF/OF 11:30 AM – Blue Ridge vs Chesnee (9 innings) 2:30 PM – Sptg/BHP 60’s & INF/OF 3:15 PM – Easley vs Spartanburg (5 innings) Spartanburg vs Belton-Honea Path (5 innings) Easley vs Belton-Honea Path (5 innings) ————————————————— Coaches Notes… -Team listed first will be in the 3B dugout and represent the home team unless otherwise agreed upon by both coaches for pitching reasons. -Teams are responsible for chasing foul/HR balls on their side of the field. -Unless noted otherwise, scrimmages will last 9 innings or 2 1/2 hours, whichever comes first. -Please bring multiple rosters of your team, complete with uniform numbers. -Please outfit your team with numbers – they do not have to be in a jersey, tshirts with numbers are perfectly fine. ————————————————— General Notes… This event is counted as a scrimmage, not a pre-season tournament or jamboree. Teams are guaranteed 9 innings, baseballs and umpires will be supplied by DP. Each team has the option to run the 60 before their games and DP will also compile a detailed prospect list for each club. To view an example of what we did last year as a follow-up for our pre-season scrimmages, click here. ————————————————— Parent/Fan Notes… -There will be a $5 Day Pass sold at the gate, no other passes will be accepted. Ages 12 & under are FREE. -Diamond Prospects apparel will be available throughout the day at each site. -A concession stand will be open throughout the day courtesy of the host high school. Coaches choosing to feed their teams at the ballpark should notify the Head Coach of the host team upon your arrival that day.

Diamond Spotlight: Seth Neely

Clemson Commitment-Seth Neely: Rock Hill shortstop Seth Neely has committed to the Tigers but also has a good perspective on life after high school and life after baseball. In his Diamond Spotlight Q & A, get a feel for the infielder and the person with high aspirations in Tigertown: DP-Please list any high school statistics of importance,… The new DP website is here. For all the great DP content, subscribe. If you have any login/subscription issues, please contact our support team. Your feedback on the new experience is appreciated as well.

Top Un-committed Position Players

-Class of 2009- Rank Name High School Position B/T Notes 1 Daniel Aldrich Wando OF L/R Tons of power and has performed very well on the national stage over the past 3 years 2 Dustin Morris Landrum INF R/R Versatile defensively but b… The new DP website is here. For all the great DP content, subscribe. If you have any login/subscription issues, please contact our support team. Your feedback on the new experience is appreciated as well.

Top Un-committed Pitchers

-Class of 2009- Rank Name High School Throws Notes 1 Travis Murphy Dillon Right Live arm that reaches the upper-80’s; potential pro guy with big game experience since freshman year 2 Chase Goude Battery Creek Left Mid-80’s LHP that has reportedl… The new DP website is here. For all the great DP content, subscribe. If you have any login/subscription issues, please contact our support team. Your feedback on the new experience is appreciated as well.